September 24, 2004
 

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's address at the UN GA yesterday scored low when it came to oratorical and theatrical ability, but high on points for showing sincerity in his what he said. He also collected several touche's when it came to references to Pakistan on issues of terrorism, proliferation and democracy.

He also talked about the need for development and economic prosperity reaching those who have been untouched so far, pretty much part of his government's Common Minimum Programme. He spoke about the need to expand the UN Security Council and declared that India's [and other countries'] presence was essential to make it a representative body. On Iraq, he expressed concern about the current situation while he was hopeful that the forthcoming Afghanistan elections would herald a new era.

Overall, I thought it was a pretty balanced speech, without any vitriol. That was pretty much expected since Manmohan's lack of oratorical skills would put him at a disadvantage compared to Musharraf. Besides there was no point in India trying to get even with Pakistan since Charles de Gaulle II made a reasonably balanced speech yesterday.

Labels: musharraf, pakistan